Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Since The New York Times Travel Show 2020 is nearly upon us, here is a #TravelThursday recap of the 2019 @NYTTravelShow and @NYBoatShow #NYTTravelShow #NYBoatShow

The New York Times Travel Show 2020 is nearly upon us!

I love covering The New York Time Travel Show, it literally puts the world at my fingertips, and I always look forward to what each new year of the show has to offer.

If you haven't already done so, get your tickets!

In 2019, The New York Times Travel Show Media Day was filled with seminars/panels, eats on and off the exhibitor floor, and many discussions about the Government Shut Down and how it is affecting travel.

Scary stats about how enrollment and applications are down to U.S. universities from international students.

The keynote delved into how the US is currently perceived abroad. And it is not very positive right now.

And while I do try hard to keep politics and religion off my pages and make this a place where you can escape from the daily news and connect with fellow light seekers, it makes me sad that the one thing that connects everyone - travel - is becoming so much more difficult to do.

At the Travel Show I always find my tribe. Journalists, Travelers, Creatives, Photographers, Influencers, Foodies, and Wanderers.

Travel shows us that we have so much more in common, more commonalities than differences. We need to build bridges, not walls.

More love and more inclusion.

The show has always been somewhat of an escape for me, but ultimately it was important and smart that panelists addressed the elephant in the room.

It is not only difficult for travelers to get here, but for us to go abroad. We can't spread our wings when someone else has them clipped.

I have always subscribed to the "salad bowl" theory instead of the melting pot, a ton of different ingredients all coming together to make something great, while maintaining their individuality.

I travel because I am curious. I travel because I like to learn, see, explore, wander, eat new foods, explore new architecture, meet people, change my perspective. I have never once returned from any journey the same person I was when I left.

I got to travel the world in a weekend at The New York Times Travel Show and that is why it is one of my favorite trade shows to cover!

Here are some photo highlights:

New York Times Travel Show 2019, #NYTTravelShow

I was still in a panel session when they did the ribbon cutting.

Adventure Flying with the Icon A5 by Icon Aircraft, NY Boat Show, #NYBoatShow


Above: Adventure Flying with the Icon A5 by Icon Aircraft! The NY Boat Show was co-branded with The New York Times Travel Show!



I wish I was on one of these right now! Hello SeaDoo! Think I could convince Santa to leave one of these under my tree for Christmas this year?

Curacao Tourism Board New York Times Travel Show 2019 #NYTTravelShow

Above: Curacao Tourism Board greets visitors with a smile!

Curacao Tourism Board New York Times Travel Show 2019 #NYTTravelShow
Above: Let's just say my smartwatch clocked me in at way over 10,000 steps per day walking around the convention center! I am wearing Miracle Body Jeans, Emu Boots and my Michael Kors Access Smartwatch!

Curacao Tourism Board New York Times Travel Show 2019 #NYTTravelShow
One of the best things about trade shows are the raffles! The Curacao Tourism Board was encouraging visitors to take a photo and post them to social media for a chance to win a trip to Curacao.





































This Rum Punch from the Puerto Rico Tourism Board gave me life! The 360 degree LED display at their booth was amazing and they also hosted one of my favorite networking receptions held during the New York Times Travel Show hosted by ManAboutWorld.com

Puerto Rico experienced so much devastation after Hurricane Maria in 2017. It was the worst natural disaster on record to affect the Islands of Puerto Rico and Domenica.

I remember seeing the 13th ward in Louisiana well after they were hit, things are just as slow going in Puerto Rico as they were for Louisiana - and in both cases, they need those tourism dollars to help speed up re-development efforts.

Not only is Puerto Rico Tourism Ready for travelers, but this quote from the Tourism Board of Puerto Rico sums it up perfectly:

"Puerto Rico is still as enchanting as ever…your visit is a gift to yourself and to the people on the island.   Thank you!! "


Above: As you can see from the photos above I spent a great deal of time in the Caribbean Pavilion!


Above: Isn't that red head dress amazing?



Above: Doesn't this one remind you a bit of Cher?



Above: I need this for Carnival




Above: Photo from Costa Rica Tourism Board Booth at New York Times Travel Show, Jacob Javitz Convention Center, New York City 2019

MY TAKE:

The New York Times Travel Show always provides me with travel inspiration, industry trends and access to a myriad of Tourism Boards and Resorts and I am excited to learn that this year one of the main sponsors is Dubai - a travel experience that is definitely on my travel bucket list. I will be taking all the notes!

This year wasn't such a great year for me personally and health wise and I didn't get to travel nearly as much as I wanted to. So for me, days away from a brand new decade, travel is certainly at the forefront of my mind, front and center of my vision board, and one of the things I want most for myself in this coming new year/DECADE. (I still can't believe we are not just entering another year, but ushering in an entirely new decade!)

Readers/Butterflies Sound Off: Have you done any traveling in 2019? Where have you visited so far? If you haven't traveled yet this year, what was your favorite trip of all time?


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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own!  This is event recap coverage. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Friday, January 26, 2018

{#FillInTheBlankFriday} This weekend I plan to: _____ Attend the @NYTTravelShow ‏#NYTTravelShow #TravelBlogger #LifestyleBlogger

THIS IS NOT COMPENSATED!

Fill in the Blank Friday on Ascending Butterfly Blog, self care, writing prompt, blog challenge

This week's theme:

This Weekend I Plan To: Attend The New York Times Travel Show in New York City!

I am so glad I am in town this weekend and will be able to catch The New York Times Travel Show this weekend at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in NYC.

Travel tends to combine ALL my loves: Music (during my journey), Photography (have DSLR will travel) and Foodie Adventures and I love checking out this show and finding out about new trends and exploring fun destinations all under one roof!

Are you attending The New York Times Travel Show this year? If so, hit me up on twitter at @Tracy_Iglesias or @Ascending1 so we can meet up! What is the top destination on your travel wish list this year?


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I will be attending the show as Media/Press. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

When your outfit inadvertently matches the art exhibit! #ChihulyNYBG + winner of our @NYBG #CHIHULYNIGHTS Giveaway Announced!

Remember when I told you I took WAY too many pictures at the Media Day of the Preview of the Dale Chihuly Exhibit at Botanical Garden?

Did I also mention I sort of inadvertently matched one of the installations in the exhibit?

OK so THIS happened:

Above: I didn't get the memo, but I did sort of match the Dale Chihuly Niijima Floats Installation

Above: Sunglasses: Foster & Grant, Jacket: Wilson's Leather, Blouse: Calvin Jeans, Jeans: Silver Jeans, Earrings: Let's just say they are 'Vintage' :-)

AboveNiijima Floats, spheres of intricate color inspired by Japanese glass fishing floats from the island of Niijima

Above: Niijima Floats, six-foot spheres of intricate color inspired by Japanese glass fishing floats from the island of Niijima

Above: I love that this boat just literally free floats, so the spheres catch different light and cast different shadows depending upon where the boat is when you photograph it. The day I was there it was super overcast, thankfully it didn't rain!

Above: These Butterfly picks were in the Gift Shop, and again they are kind of matching my outfit!

Above: OK so I may have been a bit 'Orange' obsessed that day!

WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT: I know you all entered my giveaway for a set of passes to Chihuly Nights at Botanical Gardens right? (see giveaway post HERE) - well drumroll please because we have a winner, Congratulations to Laura F.

There are definitely way more photos, I'll break them up!

My Take:

If you haven't checked out the exhibit, what are you waiting for?

Be sure to put the New York Botanical and this exhibit on your summer to do list!

If you are a blogger feel free to leave a link to your Wordless Wednesday Post this week so we can show you some love. NO GIVEAWAY LINKS PLEASE! (I do moderate comments but an angel and butterfly will lose its wings if you break this rule! And I know you wouldn't want that to happen.)

Mention Worthy (Please SHARE with a Military Vet!):

The New York Botanical Garden announces free admission for U.S. veterans to CHIHULY Nights on four select dates between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

U.S. veterans of any military service branch will receive free admission to CHIHULY Nights on Saturdays, May 27 and June 24, and Thursdays, July 6 and August 31.

CHIHULY, the major new exhibition at The New York Botanical Garden, presented by Bank of America, features more than 20 installations by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly.

What are YOUR Memorial Day Weekend Plans Butterflies?

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own! I covered the Media Day as press and the giveaway was sponsored by NYBG but NOT compensated. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

{Mothers Day #Giveaway} Win a pair of passes to #CHIHULYNIGHTS from @Ascending1 & @NYBG #ChihulyNYBG

Coming up empty on Mother's Day Gift Ideas this year?

Tired of the same old same old?

How about an experience instead?

I recently attended the media preview day of  the latest Exhibition at The New York Botanical Garden for Dale Chihuly which will run through late October (10/29 to be precise).

As usual, I have taken more photos than I can possibly fit into one post so I will create a Pinterest Board that will be a work in progress of the exhibition. (When the board is completed the words "Pinterest Board" will become clickable).

Do you think Mom would like an experience that combines nature, art, and music in a very special setting?

I come with a Special Giveaway!

The 'evening version' of this exhibition called 'CHIHULY Nights' where the exhibition will be infused with an almost magical energy as the artworks created by Dale Chihuly will be illuminated which will heighten the drama and luminous quality of Dale Chihuly's colors and forms when lit under the evening sky is all yours, read through for your chance to win a pair of tickets to CHIHULY Nights at New York Botanical Garden.

In the Visitor Center plaza there will be a rotating lineup of performing artists and musicians, and Avion Tequila cocktails will also be available for purchase.

Media Day Intro:


AboveThe New York Botanical Garden is the perfect setting for Dale Chihuly’s art,” said Gregory Long, Chief Executive Officer and The William C. Steere Sr. President of NYBG. “Our historic landscape is an open-air museum, providing a thrilling opportunity for our visitors to see the spectacular installations, especially when they will be lit at night. The exhibition will be a more holistic look at the legacy of Chihuly the artist. We are extremely grateful to our sponsors and everyone whose support is making it possible for us to bring this experience to our existing and new audiences.”




Above: The artist had a show at the New York Botanical Garden in 2006, but the NYBG says the new exhibit is much larger and much more fully-realized. Gregory Long (pictured above), the NYBG’s president, referenced the 2006 show as “only a taste of the real thing… this one is bigger and better.” CHIHULY incorporates a broader and more diverse terrain across the garden, from inside the Enid Haupt Conservatory to the Metz Library and all around the wooded grounds.


There are more than 20 installations of Chihuly’s beautiful glass works all in all. His staff and the NYBG worked together for two years as they prepared for the opening and installation of the works took three weeks, with many large trucks from Seattle delivering the glass pieces.

Above: Citron Sun by Dale Chihuly welcomes visitors to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory at New York Botanical Garden.


Above: Citron Sun Close Up!


Above: I couldn't resist the temptation to get super close up and capture the vibrant color and detail in this installation.

Where Nature Meets Art:

Above: I loved the Dragon Tree 'Colorama' juxtaposed against Dale Chihuly White Tower with Fiori New York Botanical Garden, CHIHULY 2017 - Photo Credit Tracy Iglesias

Above: I zoomed in to get a close up on the vibrant color and detail on this installation as well

Above: I thought I'd get in close to the bottom of the installation as it makes it appear as if it is growing straight up out of the rocks!

Above: CHIHULY Exhibition Scarlet and Yellow Icicle Tower, New York Botanical Garden 2017 Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias


Above: CHIHULY NEON (don't worry I got a close up, see photo below)

Above: NEON by Dale Chihuly - yes I zoom in again for a bit more detail, see below

Above: Neon 206, a busy outdoor work that features over 1,100 feet of neon and acrylic arranged into a glorious tangle!

Above: I spot Blue Herons by Dale Chihuly poking out from the Native Plants in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, New York Botanical Garden 2017 CHIHULY Exhibiion. Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias



Above: The juxtaposition of the plant life with the art installations is captivating and a photographers dream! Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias



MY TAKE:

My recap coverage is so extensive I will have to split into a few pieces so you can get a sense for how much of the grounds the exhibition really covers! I can't wait to experience the installations by night as well so I can see the pieces lit up against the night sky. So keep checking back for our Wordless Wednesdays - they won't be wordless because obviously - I am never wordless - but they will be photo heavy!

I love this exhibit and can't wait to check it out at night!

WIN IT:

Tell us your favorite memory experience with your mom! Leave a comment on this post on a cherished memory with your mom and don't forget to use the rafflecopter widget to enter the contest. Did you have a favorite place you would always visit with your mom?

Use the rafflecopter widget below to enter (if the widget seems 'stuck' just refresh your browser, it might have 'fallen asleep while you were reading!):

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please Note: This giveaway is only open to those 21 years of age and above. Ascending Butterfly will NOT be held responsible if you are denied access to the event or bar because winner or guest is not of age, there are NO subsitutions to this prize)

The Prize: This giveaway includes one pair of passes to CHIHULY NIGHTS (one winner and one guest) It does NOT include airfare, hotel, parking or any additional expenses.

Leave a comment on this post on a cherished memory with your mom and don't forget to use the rafflecopter widget to enter the contest.

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own! I covered the Media Day as press and the giveaway is sponsored by NYBG but NOT compensated. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Not so #WordlessWednesday Photo Tour of The New York Times #Travel Show! @NYTTravelShow #NYTTravelShow

I had no idea when I walked into the Media Day for The New York Times Travel Show this year what a mess there would be at the Airports later that weekend. (And let's not even discuss the weekend schedule into the city on public transpo, thanks MTA! NOT!)

After what was an amazing weekend of  'exploring the world in one place' and connecting with my tribe of fellow travelers, 'wanderlusters' and writers - Editor friends would have trouble getting home, when Airlines experienced computer problems, and our new President issued a Travel Ban that caused chaos.

It took me a few days to figure out how to approach sharing my recap of the show. Should I stay silent about what is going on around the world? Just focus on the exhibitors? Tidbits from the Panels and Learning Sessions from Media Day only?

There are fundamental things in life that have the ability to 'transport' you:

(1) Reading
(2) Music
(3) Education

and last but certainly not least

(4) TRAVEL

Travel at its best expands our horizons, shows us just how much we have in common - it makes the world that much 'bigger'.

And that is exactly what The New York Travel Show achieved for me, here are some photo highlights:


Above: All-Inclusive Travel Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - the all-inclusive travel market is facing a ton of competition - including cruising, improvements are being made but travel buyers still need to research and evaluate a prospective all-inclusive carefully to be sure you are getting the most bang for your buck based on the way YOU travel. When you travel, do you sleep in late most days? Then an all-inclusive that includes breakfast is probably not a necessary expense for you. Do you hate buffets? Make sure your all-inclusive includes more than a buffet dining option.


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show -  Norwegian Cruises let us know that the Norwegian Sky is going to Cuba with an overnight in Havana



Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - Celebrity Cruises will boast 61 overnight calls in Europe in 2017


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - MSC Cruises focus on wellness powered by Technogym definitely caught my eye, if I can get away but still focus on 'staying centered' that is my idea of vacation nirvana! I have never taken a cruise before, but MSC has definitely got me tempted. Ascending Butterfly has always taken a 'Mind, Body, and Soul' approach to wellness and wellbeing and this is certainly right up my alley!

VIDEO - While I did take photos I thought sharing this video I shot at the Mexico Tourism Exhibitor Booth of a live Mariachi Band would be way more fun!



Below: The Media Day was sponsored by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, they hosted a really nice networking break:


Above: Costa Rican Coffee, an assortment of chocolate, and dried fruit to take home and some delicious empanadas to nibble on between sessions was a great break in between panels during Media Day. Learning is hungry business!


Above: It snowed yesterday here in New York City, I actually wish I was on a beach 'wasting away in Margaritaville' right about now! #LicensetoChill

Below: But it was the Giant Flip Flop that drew visitor's to the booth!




Above: The India Tourism Board caught my eye especially after the special screening of Lion starring SAG nominee Dev Patel that I got to attend earlier in the month (I will share a full review on the movie soon) and I couldn't help but nab a close up of the eye catching elephant statues.




ABOVE: Indonesia also had a super eye catching booth!


Above: At the Indonesia Tourism Booth they offered the chance to customize a bookmark with your name in Javanese Characters which as an avid reader I thought was awesome and I definitely took advantage of this, it will be a very treasured bookmark!


Above: The interactive mailbox at Live the Language definitely caught my eye, I would love to learn a new language abroad! Yes Please!

Cultural Performances:


Above: 2017 New York Times Travel Show  - The New York Korean Performing Arts Center drum and dance in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Asia Stage Cultural Performance.


Above: Korean Martial Arts Group takes Asia Stage at The New York Times Travel Show (I have studied several forms of Martial Arts, seeing this was a great reminder I need to get back into it!)


Above: Cultural Dance Performance - The New York Times Travel Show 2017

Above: What is a tradeshow without a fun cocktail reception right? ManAboutWorld hosted a cocktail reception sponsored by the Tourism Boards of both Florida and Arizona, and they definitely get cool swag mentions for the McClendon's Select Organic Red Grapefruit Soaps! Not to mention the Tequila Glasses for the Margaritas were super cute too! LGBT travel was the focus of this party which I hopes become an annual one for the show.

MY TAKE:

The New York Times Travel Show does a great job of improving it's Media Day each year, I am there now as Press, but many moons ago I worked for an Airline (that is still very much in business) in the Caribbean Sales Division where I sold directly to the Agencies that sold to the end consumer. I will always have a strong interest in the 'business' side of travel and where it's headed, the technology that is always changing and adapting to suit the needs of the tech savvy traveler and finding unique travel ideas, products and experiences.

It also activates a fresh case of 'wanderlust-itis' - that won't go away until I board a plane again!

Readers Sound Off: What destination(s) is top on your travel bucket list this year?

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FTC Disclosure: I was granted Press Access to the New York Times Travel Show for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.